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Baptism

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What is Water Baptism?

Water baptism is an important step to take as you establish a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Once you invite Jesus to be your Life Manager, your next step is to be water baptized. God commands every Christian to be baptized. Below you will find some answers to the common questions people ask regarding baptism.

Why should I be baptized?

To follow the example set by Christ.

“At that time Jesus came from Nazareth and was baptized by John in the river” (Mark 1:9) Water baptism is so important to God that Jesus himself was baptized. He modeled it for us. It’s an example that we are to follow. We are to do what He has done. So, the first reason we should be baptized is to follow the example set by Christ. The second reason we should be baptized is because…

Because Jesus commands it.

Jesus Christ commands that every Christian be baptized. “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, [20] and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” (Matthew 28:19-20) (NIV)

These three things the church is commanded to do:

1. Make disciples - help people come to know Christ
2. Baptize them
3. Help them grow up to become more like Jesus.

It demonstrates that I’m a follower of Christ.

The Bible says, “Any of the people who heard Him believed and were baptized.” Baptism doesn’t make you a Christian. It just shows that you are a Christian. It’s and outward symbol of an inward commitment. It is your commitment to Christ that saves you. Baptism just says to the world, “I’m not ashamed to tell the whole world what’s happened to me. I’ve given my life to Christ.” (Acts 18:18) A little boy said one time, “Pastor, when can I get advertised?” That’s what baptism is. Baptism is an advertisement for Jesus. It’s saying, "I’m not ashamed of Jesus Christ.” Jesus once said, “if you’re ashamed of Me in front of the world then I’ll be ashamed of you in fro t of My Father in heaven.”

Who should be baptized?

Every person who has believed in Christ.

“Those who believe and accepted His message were baptized…” (Acts 2:41)

“But when they believed Philip as he preached the Good News.. and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women.” (Acts 8:12)

There is only one qualification in the Bible to be baptized. Believe in Christ. Obviously you’ve got to be old enough to understand what that’s all about. You may have seen people baptized when they were babies - in fact, you may have been yourself.

When should I be baptized?

The Bible says as soon as you believe in Jesus, you should be baptized.

“Those who believe… were baptized… that day!” (Acts 2:41)

Many people think, “I’ll be baptized after I’ve grown up spiritually. After I group up spiritually, then I’ll be baptized.” God says, be baptized once you become a Christian. There is no reason to delay. As son / daughter you have decided to receive Christ into your life, you can and should be baptized. Don’t wait until you are more spiritual, the Bible encourages you to take this next step as soon as possible.

Can my family be baptized together?

Yes! If each family member understands the meaning of baptism, and each one has personally placed his/her trust in Christ for salvation, we encourage families to be baptized at the same time. It is a wonderful expression of commitment. Young children who wish to be baptized are asked to meet with one of our pastors first for a prebaptism conversation. If you have a young child 6 or younger baptized with you, please guide them to be baptized at a later age when they will understand what they are doing.

What should I wear when I am baptized?

Women should wear shorts and a top for modesty purpose. Men may wear a swimsuit and t-shirt. Please bring a change of clothes, a towel and a plastic bag for your wet clothing once you’re baptized.

What if I have special needs?

All of our pastors can perform a private baptism in special circumstances. Simply call the office to arrange this.